What is network name or ssid

We use routers to create WiFi signals then access internet after connecting to this WiFi. In this process we generally come across word like SSID or WiFi name, but have you ever wondered what actually this is?

Like when you login to your Netgear router login 192 168 1 1 then there is an option to change SSID name. In simple words SSID is the name given to our router which we can see in our network area and get connected to it after providing the password for this.

SSID

SSID is termed as Service Set identifier, which is the primary name associated with 802.11 wireless local area network. It is a text (or say String) which is case sensitive and can be combination of letters and numbers.

We generally say “I am connected to alfa WiFi”, here alfa is SSID or WiFi name. The default SSID is mostly the router’s company name like Linksys, NETGEAR, xfinitywifi, dlink or it can be just default also.

Devices and SSID

When networks like WiFi broadcasts the signal, actual this is broadcasting SSID in a packet. This SSID will be scanned by devices such as phones, laptops or any other device with capability to scan the WiFi signal.

These devices prepare a list of such scanned SSIDs, which we can see in network area. Now if we provide the password for a SSID, the device communicates with SSID provider and internet connection is built between that router and the device.

Issues with SSIDs

If the SSID or say network is not secured with authentication, then anyone can connect to it and can misuse the internet access. It can be harmful for your data as well, if any hacker gets access to such SSIDs.

Using default SSID can create ambiguity and confusion with neighbor’s SSID, if your neighbor also has the default SSID.

Some anti social people can name their SSID as offensive words or coded message.